BENGALURU: “I’ve travelled across India on my bicycle, but this is the first time I’ve seen anything like this,” said a young cyclist who alleged that toll staff tried to charge him Rs 25 at the Electronics City toll plaza, sparking a social media debate.The incident took place on April 18 when the cyclist entered the Silk Board–Electronics City elevated corridor on Hosur Road, a high-speed stretch where non-motorised vehicles such as bicycles are prohibited.In a video that surfaced on social media, the cyclist claimed he was stopped at the toll point and asked to pay Rs 25. He is seen arguing with staff and refusing to pay, insisting that bicycles should not be charged toll. He stood his ground and did not make the payment, but alleged he faced resistance.“I’ve been cycling across the country and have never encountered this before,” he says in the video, expressing disbelief over the demand.However, officials at the Electronics City toll plaza have denied the allegation, maintaining that no toll was collected from the rider.“Bicycles are not allowed on the elevated corridor due to safety reasons. Warning signboards are placed at entry points, but the cyclist ignored them,” a toll official said, adding that staff only stopped him to caution him for violating the rules.Authorities clarified that toll applies only to permitted motorised vehicles such as two-wheelers and cars authorised to use the corridor, while bicycles are barred from entry altogether.The incident has since sparked debate online, raising questions over both enforcement of traffic restrictions and the cyclist’s claim of being asked to pay.
